Detailed Safari
Day 1: Drive from Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park
Your safari begins with an early morning drive from Kampala heading northwest toward Murchison Falls National Park. The route passes lively roadside towns and vast countryside. You may stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for an optional rhino tracking experience before continuing to Masindi for lunch.
Enter the park in the afternoon and continue to your lodge. Depending on time, you may enjoy a short evening game drive. The day winds down as you relax with dinner in the wilderness.
Accommodation Suggestions:
- Budget: Red Chilli Rest Camp / Hornbill Bush Lodge / Heritage Safari Lodge
- Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge / Fort Murchison Lodge / Murchison River Lodge (Safari Tents)
- Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge / Nile Safari Lodge / Chobe Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Lunch en route, Dinner at the lodge
Day 2: Morning Game Drive & Afternoon Boat Cruise
You start your day with a powerful morning game drive on the northern sector of the park. This area is rich with wildlife including elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, lions, leopards, hyenas, hartebeests, waterbucks and countless bird species. The sunrise transforms the plains into a golden wonderland.
Return to the lodge for lunch and prepare for the famous afternoon boat cruise on the Nile. This thrilling cruise takes you upstream toward the base of Murchison Falls, where the entire Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge. Expect hippos, crocodiles, elephants and birds along the riverbanks. After the cruise, you may drive to the top of the falls for dramatic views before returning for dinner.
Accommodation Suggestions:
- Budget: Red Chilli Rest Camp / Hornbill Bush Lodge / Heritage Safari Lodge
- Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge / Fort Murchison Lodge / Murchison River Lodge (Safari Tents)
- Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge / Nile Safari Lodge / Chobe Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Transfer from Murchison Falls to Kibale Forest National Park
After breakfast, you begin a scenic drive southwards toward the primate capital — Kibale Forest. The road offers stunning views of rolling hills, local farms, and interesting landscapes. You stop for lunch en route and continue toward Fort Portal, a town blessed with crater lakes and beautiful scenery.
Arrive in Kibale later in the afternoon, check in at your lodge, relax and enjoy the cool forest environment as you prepare for a thrilling chimpanzee encounter the next day.
Accommodation Suggestions:
- Budget: Kibale Forest Camp (Lazy Camping) / Chimpanzee Forest Guest House (Budget Rooms) / Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve
- Mid-range: Isunga Lodge / Turaco Treetops / Chimpanzee Forest Guest House (Cottages)
- Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge / Ndali Lodge / Crater Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest
After an early breakfast, you head to Kanyanchu Visitor Centre for a short briefing. With professional ranger guides, you follow forest trails in search of a lively chimpanzee community. The forest is full of energy — birds singing, monkeys leaping between branches and chimps calling loudly through the canopy.
Once you find them, you spend time watching them feed, play, groom and interact. Their expressive nature and agility make the experience unforgettable.
After trekking, return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. Optional afternoon activities include a crater lake hike, Bigodi swamp walk or relaxing at your lodge.
Accommodation Suggestions:
- Budget: Kibale Forest Camp (Lazy Camping) / Chimpanzee Forest Guest House (Budget Rooms) / Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve
- Mid-range: Isunga Lodge / Turaco Treetops / Chimpanzee Forest Guest House (Cottages)
- Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge / Ndali Lodge / Crater Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Drive Back to Kampala
After a relaxed breakfast, you start your journey back to Kampala. The road offers more chances to enjoy Uganda’s beauty. You stop for lunch along the way before continuing to Kampala where your safari ends.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch en route
Best Time to Do the Safari
The best months for this safari are June to September and December to February. These seasons offer better wildlife visibility in Murchison Falls and more favorable trekking conditions in Kibale Forest.
The safari remains enjoyable all year, with lush scenery and high primate activity even in wetter months.
Estimated Cost Per Person (Based on 6 People Sharing)
| Category | Estimated Cost Per Person |
|---|---|
| Budget | USD 1,150 – 1,450 |
| Mid-range | USD 1,600 – 2,100 |
| Luxury | USD 2,500 – 3,500+ |
Notes:
- Costs include park fees, activities, chimp trekking permit, transport, fuel, guide and accommodation.
- Luxury options vary widely depending on lodge choice.
- Optional rhino tracking at Ziwa has an additional cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How difficult is the chimp trek?
The hike is moderate. Trails may be wet or muddy, but most travellers complete it comfortably.
Q: Can I add rhino tracking to this itinerary?
Yes, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is on the route to Murchison and can be added on Day 1.
Q: Are wildlife sightings guaranteed in Murchison Falls?
While sightings vary, the park is rich with wildlife and game drives offer high chances of seeing elephants, giraffes, lions, hippos and more.
Q: What clothing should I pack?
Sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, long-sleeved shirts, a light jacket, sun hat, rain gear and insect repellent.
Q: Are the lodges close to the activities?
Yes. All suggested lodges are located inside or near the parks for easy access.
Q: Is the safari suitable for kids?
Game drives and boat cruises are suitable for children, but chimp trekking requires a minimum age of 12 years.